In a recent piece by Rich Lowry for The New York Post, the author humorously explores the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state of the United States, a notion that has been playfully suggested by former President Donald Trump.
Lowry's piece, laced with wit and satire, discusses the economic, political, and cultural implications of such a hypothetical scenario.
Trump's recent musings about Canada joining the US have included posting a digitally created image of himself beside a Canadian flag and referring to Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, as "governor." While many Canadians have taken these antics in stride, some have expressed concern or indignation. Lowry, however, assures them, "Dont worry, Canada we dont really want you."
Lowry argues that the U.S. doesn't need another large, mismanaged blue state, pointing to California as an existing example. He highlights Canada's economic struggles, stating that the country has fallen further behind the U.S. economically over the last several years. He quotes The Economist, which reported, "The IMF forecasts that Canadas national income per head, equivalent to around 80% of Americas in the decade before the pandemic, will be just 70% of its neighbors in 2025."
Lowry also cites Trevor Tombe, a University of Calgary economics professor, who notes that "the gap between the Canadian and American economies has now reached its widest point in nearly a century." According to Tombe, if Canada were to join the U.S., it would rank as the fourth-poorest state, beneath Alabama.
In terms of politics, Lowry suggests that Canada would be a "blue-state behemoth," matching California in population and presumably in reliably Democratic politics. He points out that while there are conservative areas in Canada, the country overall leans less conservative than the U.S.
Lowry also addresses the cultural differences between the two countries, including the potential language issues that would arise from incorporating Quebec, a French-speaking province. He also humorously speculates on the future of Trudeau, suggesting that the Canadian Prime Minister might revive his career in Democratic politics if Canada were to become a U.S. state.
In conclusion, Lowry argues that despite the playful banter, the U.S. should respect Canada's distinct political and economic cultures. He ends his piece with a simple statement: "Let Canada be Canada."
Login